Forever Sick: What’s Stopping You from Protecting Yourself Against the Flu

Why You Should Get Your Flu Shot Now

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the peak of flu season in Russia is expected to hit in February 2023. In St. Petersburg, the illness rate has already exceeded the threshold by 28%, and other regions are also at high risk of an epidemic. To protect yourself and your loved ones, it’s crucial to understand which precautions are ineffective and what steps you should take immediately.

Flu Vaccine Myths Debunked

The flu vaccine contains an inactive version of the virus, so it cannot cause the flu. People often confuse the side effects of vaccination, such as mild fever, headache, and muscle pain, with the flu itself. Additionally, people tend to get vaccinated in the fall and early winter, when respiratory illnesses are prevalent and can be mistaken for the flu.

Remember, it takes two to four weeks for the vaccine to provide full protection. If you’re exposed to the virus during this time, you might still get sick. If someone insists they got the flu from the vaccine, explain how it actually works. The vaccine activates your immune system, prompting cells to produce antibodies against the live virus, which is similar to the inactive version in the vaccine.

If someone argues that clinics only use cheap and ineffective vaccines, remind them that dealing with an epidemic is far more costly to the healthcare system than saving on vaccines. You can get a free flu shot at any clinic after consulting with a therapist or the on-duty doctor. You don’t need residency or registration; just bring your Russian passport. Even health insurance isn’t mandatory. You only need to sign an informed medical consent form after the doctor’s examination.

The Vaccine’s Shelf Life

Since the flu virus constantly mutates, the vaccine composition changes annually to protect against the most prevalent strains. According to the WHO, the flu vaccine is never 100% effective. However, even if it doesn’t prevent infection, it still stimulates your immune system, reducing the severity of symptoms and the risk of complications.

It’s Not Too Late to Get Vaccinated

Although seasonal outbreaks typically occur in October, with the active period from December to February, flu activity can continue until May. So, it’s never too late to visit your local medical center. By getting vaccinated, you’re protecting not only yourself but also your family. The likelihood of any family member getting infected is much lower if everyone is vaccinated.

Vitamins and Supplements Aren’t Enough

The only thing that truly helps your immune system fight the flu is vaccination. Zinc, vitamin C, or any other supplements can only help manage symptoms. While you can continue taking them, it’s more effective to drink plenty of tea and gargle to keep your throat moist.

You Can Spread the Flu Without a Fever

The virus spreads when you sneeze or cough, even 24 hours before symptoms appear. You remain contagious for 24 hours after the fever subsides. So, it’s essential to practice good hygiene and get vaccinated to protect those around you.

The Flu Can Be Deadly

You might have heard media reports of healthy adults dying from the flu within days. In reality, most of these deaths result from multiple infections occurring simultaneously, such as pneumonia, sepsis, or heart failure. The more health issues you have, the harder it is for your body to fight off infections.

If you have a high fever, body aches, a sore throat, and a cough, it’s likely the flu. However, if the fever persists for more than two to three days and you feel worse, seek medical attention immediately. For more information on health issues you can diagnose yourself, visit this informative guide.

Antivirals Aren’t a Cure-All

If you take antiviral medication within 48 hours of the first symptom, drugs like Tamiflu or Zanamivir can reduce the severity and duration of the infection. However, your immune system can fight off the illness without these medications. Remember, doctors don’t recommend taking antibiotics during a viral infection unless specifically prescribed, as they can lead to secondary infections.